Parts of a Long Bone


Diaphysis-
the bone's shaft/body
long, cylindrical main portion of the bone

Epiphysis-
distal and proximal ends of the bone
2 per long bone

Metaphysis-
where the epiphysis meets diaphysis

Epiphyseal plate-
a layer of hyaline cartilage located in the metaphysis of growing long bones
allows bone to grow in length

Epiphyseal Plate-
After the bone stops growing the cartilage is replaced by bone

Articular Cartilage-
a layer of hyaline cartilage that covers the part of the epiphysis where the bone articulates
serves to reduce friction, absorb shock at movable joints

Periosteum-
tough sheath or dense irregular connective tissue surrounding bone forming cells
contains bone forming cells
allows bones to get thicker, not longer
assists in repair
nourishes bone
serves as attachment for ligaments and tendons

medullary cavity-
marrow cavity
space in shaft
contains fatty yellow marrow in adults, red marrow in children

endosteum-
single layer of bone